Condensation is a typical concern in HVAC ducting; however, duct socks do not have the same natural tendency toward sweating as other HVAC ducts do. Permeable textiles prevent the formation of condensation on the ductwork, which is why fabric ducting does not require insulation.
Eliminating the need for insulation provides significant time savings on a project, which naturally also affects the price. The savings potential also includes materials, and the transportation and storage of these during the building project.
Duct sox can be used everywhere where exposed ductwork would be applicable. Fabric air dispersion solutions are made from fireproof materials and all FabricAirtextiles are UL certified. Fabric ducts can even be made from non-combustible fiberglass.
The efficient use of materials does not only affect the price of the air dispersion systems, but also means lower shipping costs. A textile-based ventilation solution fits into just a few boxes rather than the truck loads of materials required to create a metal duct solution.
The birthplace of fabric air ventilation ducts was a Danish meat processing plant. They needed a hygienic solution for their workspaces; one that would create a draft-free work environment without compromising product safety. Through this joint project, FabricAir became the first company to launch modern air sox. This was in 1973.
Since then, the technology has spread across the globe and more producers have joined the industry. Common for all is the desire to create HVAC ductwork in a better, easier and more flexible way to offer a more versatile alternative to steel ducting.
The hygienic nature of fabric ducts stems from the elimination of condensation, which in turn prevents bacteria, microbial growth and mold. Duct sox, like regular socks, can be machine washed if they get dirty; some textile ducts can even be autoclaved. That cannot be done with conventional ventilation ducting.
Finally, Fabric ductwork offers unique sound-technical properties, which means air socks are the better alternative in noise sensitive applications. FabricAir offers a LowNoise™ solution ideal in libraries, auditoriums, and the like.
